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Turns out the Mayans were wrong, which means we can expect another intriguing year in the world of sports.

Fans in Calgary will likely want to follow these 10 storylines in 2013 ...

10. When will the puck finally drop, and what can we expect from the Flames when it does?

There’s a sliver of optimism — again — the NHL and NHLPA can salvage a season. A compressed 48-game grind would be a challenge for an aging squad such as the Flames. However, past employees of new head coach Bob Hartley speak glowingly of his motivational skills, so maybe he can bring playoff hockey to the Saddledome for the first time since 2009.

9. Can Kaillie Humphries continue her incredible streak?

If she was German or Swiss, Humphries would be a national icon. Instead, the bobsled pilot has remained one of Calgary’s best-kept sporting secrets even as she has rattled off eight straight victories on the World Cup circuit, including gold at the world championship. Humphries’ winning streak is already an international record, and she’ll try to keep it going in the New Year.

8. What’s next for UFC middleweight Nick Ring?

Calgary’s top mixed-martial artist was slated to meet Costa Philippou at UFC 154 in Montreal but was a last-minute scratch due to illness. Philippou, instead, upset Tim Boetsch at UFC 155, and although Ring would love a crack at the former boxer, Philippou is likely in line for a bigger matchup. Ring, whose last appearance was a win at UFC 149 at the Saddledome, should know soon.

7. What does Nik Lewis have left in him?

Arguably the most consistent pass-catcher in the history of the Stampeders, Lewis hit the 10,000-yard mark in mid-September and now has nine straight 1,000-yard campaigns. His fearless approach makes him oh-so-valuable to the team, but it undoubtedly comes with a physical toll. As long as his body allows it, the outspoken slotback will be a big part of the Stamps’ offensive gameplan.

6. Are the Calgary Hitmen a championship-calibre squad?

Western Hockey League fans have been spoiled by the Hitmen, who have as many trips to the championship series as playoff misses in their 18-year history. Backstopped by stalwart netminder Chris Driedger, the Hitmen are fighting for top spot in the WHL’s Eastern Conference standings. They’re not considered the favourites to win their third league crown, but they have elbowed their way into the conversation.

5. Is Drew Tate starting quarterback material?

Ability-wise, the answer is a definite ‘yes.’ After all, Tate is undefeated in the five CFL games he has started and finished. Five isn’t a very big sample size, though. After suffering a dislocated shoulder and a fractured wrist this season, what’s uncertain is if the 28-year-old Texan can stay healthy for an entire campaign. Tate insists he can, but he needs to prove it in 2013.

4. Will golf fans make a statement this summer?

It’s no secret some influential folks are pushing to eventually bring the PGA Tour’s RBC Canadian Open to the shadow of the Rockies. Calgary will host two high-level golf events in 2013 — a PGA Tour Canada tournament at Country Hills Talons and a Champions Tour stop at Canyon Meadows — and you can bet officials will be keeping a close eye on attendance figures.

3. Is Roman Cervenka the real deal?

It’s not just fans in Calgary who are wondering about this. The 27-year-old Czech centre is a former Olympian, a two-time KHL all-star and has been ranked as one of the most talented players outside the NHL. After signing a one-year pact with the Flames, he’ll have a chance to prove the hype was warranted. The Flames will be thrilled if Cervenka hits some of his production-based bonuses.

2. What will Jon Cornish do for an encore?

Normie Kwong’s single-season rushing mark lasted for 56 years. In 2013, Cornish will try to rewrite the CFL record books for a second consecutive campaign. Fresh off the best statistical season ever by a Canadian running back, the 28-year-old has set a high standard for himself — 1,457 ground yards, 338 more through the air and 13 all-purpose touchdowns. How will the Stampeders star possibly top that?

1. Are Jarome Iginla’s days at the Saddledome numbered?

Iginla has one season — this one — remaining on his current contract with the Flames. With 30-plus goals in 11 consecutive campaigns, he’s already established his status as the greatest player in franchise history. Although it would be bizarre to see the 35-year-old sharpshooter in another uniform, Flames GM Jay Feaster will have to gauge Iginla’s trade value if there’s no extension in the works to keep him in Calgary.

Top 10 Calgary sports stories to watch in 2013

Turns out the Mayans were wrong, which means we can expect another intriguing year in the world of sports.

Fans in Calgary will likely want to follow these 10 storylines in 2013 ...

10. When will the puck finally drop, and what can we expect from the Flames when it does?

There’s a sliver of optimism — again — the NHL and NHLPA can salvage a season. A compressed 48-game grind would be a challenge for an aging squad such as the Flames. However, past employees of new head coach Bob Hartley speak glowingly of his motivational skills, so maybe he can bring playoff hockey to the Saddledome for the first time since 2009.